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Wednesday, May 09, 2012

New evidence of carcinogen in gas released by cigarette smoking

The gas in cigarette smoke may be the most harmful
because of the impacts on body cells, researchers warn.

The fact that cigarette smoke can cause cancer is not new, but researchers are starting to pinpoint exactly how the body reacts when confronted with thousands of chemicals and toxins in tobacco smoke.

In a new study, researchers found a key protein involved in cell function and regulation is stopped by a substance present in cigarette smoke.

The gaseous phase of cigarette smoke contains a cancer-causing agent called reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can inhibit normal cell function and almost completely stop a cell’s sodium pump.

A cell’s sodium pump is vital in the transportation of potassium into the cell and sodium out of the cell. If a cell cannot regulate sodium, it may be prone to damage, disease progression and lower chances of survival.

The researchers say that these findings show that it’s not the particles in cigarette smoke that do the most damage – it’s the gas with this agent that is sufficient to cause harm and that can be breathed in while standing near a smoker.

Cigarette smoke contains more than 4000 components, many of which have been linked to lung cancer.

Secondhand smoke is just as dangerous as primary smoke because of its impact on the cells of the body, researchers say.

They also stressed the importance of keeping children away from cigarette smoke.

The study is published online in the American Journal of Physiology - Lung Cell and Molecular Physiology.

Anyone who has been around a smoker knows that the persistent odors and toxins from cigarette smoke tend to linger – not only on people’s hair, clothes and skin but also on the furniture, textiles, walls and other indoor surfaces.

The information presented in this blog is basic and general in nature. It should never replace the advice of a medical professional. Always consult your medical practitioner for advice concerning your particular health concern.